Recent surveys suggest that the demand for skilled IT workers is on the rise, and it may not be so easy to find the professionals you need in the coming year. To give you a leg up, John Reed, executive director of Robert Half Technology, outlines four hiring tips for luring good talent, in a post at CIOUpdate.

A single source, such as a newspaper ad, is no longer sufficient to find the best candidates, Reed advises. You have to broaden the search by using professional networks, social media and staffing companies. Referral bonuses for current employees can also lead to successful candidates.

The search for workers with high-demand skills--such as web designers with expertise in Java, CSS and PHP--can be particularly tough. To avoid alienating good candidates, streamline the screening process rather than drawing it out, Reed warns. "[H]ave top contenders meet with middle managers and potential colleagues at the same appointment to avoid delay in your decision making," he suggests.

Don't forget that candidates are interviewing your company as you interview them. You want to put the spotlight on the best things your company has to offer, including technologies, health benefits or flexibility. 

Finally, do what you can to retain the valuable employees you already have, Reed recommends. Now is a good time to review your retention strategies and think about what more you can do to keep workers satisfied.  If you cannot afford to give out raises, there may be ways to enhance other benefits. Mentoring programs and training opportunities both demonstrate that you care about your staff, Reed writes.

For more:
- see John Reed's post at CIOUpdate

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